Pros

Perfect for Outdoor Exercise.  The over the ear design makes these perfect for someone who likes to workout outside, allowing the user to not only listen to their favorite song but also be aware of their surroundings.

Multiple Ear Pad Options.  Polk Audio has gone out of the way to provide different types of ear pads, so that you can find some that meet your need in any environment.

Tangle Free Cord.  You may think this feature is kind of gimmicky, but we assure it is not.  The cord is a bit flatter and thicker than a normal cord and if you’re like us and just toss your headphones in your gym bag haphazardly then this feature will come in handy.

Cons

 Sound Quality.  It’s not really that the sound quality is bad, it’s that any over the ear headphone is going to have to compete with ambient noises.  Being able to hear your surroundings keeps you safe, but it also causes a slight reduction in clarity of sound.

Hard to Adjust Ear Pads.  While it’s a pretty cool feature to have different type ear pads for different weather conditions and activities, the ear pads are slightly difficult to get on and off.

Our Review

We’re big fans of using over the ear headphones for biking and running, so we were pretty excited when Polk released an over the ear, neckband sports headphone within their new UltraFit series.  While ear buds are becoming more and more popular in an exercise or sports environment there’s still a place for earphones, especially if you’ve ever had problems with earbuds not staying in during a workout.  The UltraFit 2000 solves that problem by not only utilizing a sports earphone, but also a comfortable neckband.

The UltraFit 2000 doesn’t come equipped with in-line controls, but it does have a built in microphone and 3 button controls placed right on the earphone itself.  It’s compatible with most smart phones, including the iPhone, so if you are set on using your iPhone or iPod as your MP3 player these will work well for you.

Another small feature that Polk Audio has done a great job with is style.  All of their UltraFit Sports Headphones come in a variety of different colors.  So whether you prefer the traditional black or want to add a little bit of flare with a bright orange and white, the UltraFit 2000 has you covered.

 Read additional reviews here

Specifications

• Weight: 2.5 ounces
• Build in Microphone
• Sweat Resistant
• Warranty: 1 year limited

What’s in the Box

1. UltraFit 2000 Headphones
2. Protective case
3. (1) Pair silicone ear pads
4. (2) pairs foam ear pads
5. (2) pairs cold weather shearling ear pads
6. Nokia connection adaptor
7. Shirt sport clip

Where to Buy

If you’re looking to find a great deal, check these out at Amazon.

What are the Best Sports Headphones for the iPhone or iPod?

Unfortunately you’re not going to like our answer.  We’re not going to unveil some secret list of sports earbuds to replace those horrible white earbuds that Apple packages with their products.  Why?  Because there is no such list.  In all honesty nearly every sports headphones manufacturer we’ve encountered ensures that one of the first things they do is check for compatibility with the iPhone and iPod.  It would be silly not to.  Thus, the best sports headphones for the iPhone or iPod are – in most cases – the best sports headphones for any device.

However, some sports headphones are taking it to a whole new level by including specific integration with the iPhone with control talk features and in-line phone and music controls.  It’s these headphones that we recommend you look at first.

Our Top 6 Sports Headphones for the iPhone

*Note: we have not rated this list 1-6, these are just our overall top 6 listed in alphabetical order.

Bose MIE2i

The Bose MIE2i are an adaptation from their industry leading Bose IE2 headphones, with a specific focus on increased functionality with Apple products.  The in-line controls feature call controls, such as one touch answering and volume and track controls that work seamlessly with Apple products

Of all the headphones on the list the Bose MIE2i and the Sennheiser CX 680i are the only sports earbuds that utilize an ear fin system to hold the earbuds in place while working out or training.  This is becoming increasingly popular for people who are trying to avoid an in-ear canal earbud, but still wanting a great fit.

Click here for our full review

Klipsch Image S4i

The Klipsch Image S4i are a takeoff of the Klipsch Image S4, with the added functionality of a 3 button Apple control.  One feature they put a lot of effort into is an echo-cancelling  microphone that is built into the in-line controls.  This can definitely come in handy if you’re using these to answer a call while at the gym.

While the Klipsch Image S4i are still an incredible set of sports earbuds for the iPhone, we highly recommend you check out the updated Klipsch Image S5i (directly below).

 Click here for our full review

Klipsch Image S5i

Klipsch decided to capitalize on the popularity of the Klipsch Image S4i by creating the Klipsch Image S5i.  Not only do they also sound amazing and utilize their patented oval ear tips, but they’ve also put a major emphasis on durability which will go a long way for any athlete that loves to train while tuned into their favorite songs.

One additional feature they’ve added to the inline controls is to make the actual buttons larger.  This makes these headphones perfect for someone utilizing them with gloves on, for instance, skiing.

 Click here for our full review

Polk Audio UltraFit 3000

The UltraFit 3000 from Polk Audio are the newest sports headphones on this list and also the only ear hook headphones included.  These are 1 of 4 of Polk Audio’s new line of sports headphones and one of the only ones to include in-line controls that function with the iPhone.

While these are a bit newer and not as tested as the others on this list, Polk Audio is well known for extraordinary sound quality and if you’re a runner you may like the addition of the ear hook to keep these in place.  Definitely check these out.  It doesn’t hurt that they look pretty nice as well, coming in multiple different colors.

Click here for our full review

Sennheiser CX 680i

The Sennheiser CX 680i are very similar to the Bose MIE2i, in that they also utilize an ear fin system for a secure fit while working out.  Just like the Bose, these headphones will stay put once you have them in.

An added benefit that you’ll notice most Sennheiser sports headphones utilize is the bright yellow color on the controls and cord.  Not only does at add a little bit of style, but it’s also a safety factor for anyone running at night or working out at dusk.

 Click here for our full review

Sennheiser PMX 680i

The Sennheiser PMX 680i are the only neckband headphones on this list.  They utilize the same system as the Sennheiser CX 680i (mentioned above).

These are some of the single most popular sports headphones in the past couple years, and continue to be a standard for neckband headphones.  We’ve had some great input from cyclists who really love these headphones.

Click here for our full review

What are some other sports headphones that work great with the iPhone?

As we mentioned above it is very rare that we come across earbuds that don’t function well with Apple products.  While the above sports earbuds have the added functionality of in-line controls to add to their sports features, there are still other great workout earbuds for the iPhone.  If you’re looking to check out some of the other options, we highly recommend you check out these amazing sports headphones.

Pros

Tangle Free Cables.  That’s right, cables, not cable.  With the UltraFit 3000 you get the option of 2 different cables: 14 inche, 41 inch with in-line controls.

Secure Fit.  Often times there’s some complaint about sacrificing comfort for a secure fit, but the UltraFit 3000 offer both.  Check out the video below to see exactly how they fit.

Options.  As you’d find out in more detail below Polk Audio has done a great job of offering a ton of options, from multiple size cables, different size ear tips, colors, and more.

Cons

Honestly it was difficult to find a con.  There’s been some concern expressed about the durability of the in-line remote control, but we’ve heard no complaints to date.

Our Review

Very similar in appearance to the UltraFit 500 and UltraFit 100, and while we liked both of those models, we love the UltraFit 3000.  Unlike the 500 or 1000, the 3000 are in-ear canal headphones.  So while the others site on the flange of your ear, these fit snugly into your ear-canal providing a superior noise isolating effect.  We also noticed that these headphones tend to sound a bit higher quality, which we’re attributing to the difference in earbuds: in-ear canal versus in-ear.

Another feature the Polk is really pushing is the “environmental awareness.”  What this essentially means is these headphones are noise isolating, not noise cancelling.  So, while they will block out a good bit of noise they won’t completely cancel it allowing you to be potentially safer if you’re prone to jogging around your neighborhood or biking near live traffic.

And last, but certainly not least we can’t forget that Polk included the option to use a cable with built-in microphone.  Since most people are using their iPhone, Android or other smart phone to double as their MP3 player this is becoming an essential feature.

Read additional reviews here

Specifications

• Multiple Colors: black/red, white/gray, white orange
• In-line remote control
• Built-in microphone
• 3.5mm input jack
• Weight: 0.4 ounces
• Warranty: 1 year

What’s in the Box

• Polk Audio UltraFit 3000 Headphones
• 3 sets of silicone single flange ear tips (S/M/L)
• 2 sets of silicone triple flange ear tips (S/L)
• 2 sets of memory foam ear tips (S/L)
• Nokia adapter
• Moisture resistant soft carrying case
• Shirt clip

Where to Buy

Almost the second these were released Amazon had one of the best prices.

Pros

Tangle-Free Audio Cables.  Polk Audio utilizes a planar cable with oxygen free design to create tangle-free audio cables.  While this isn’t essential for sports headphones, it’s definitely a nice feature.

Moisture Resistant.  Polk Audio uses what they call a “moisture shield” to protect the drivers in the headphones from any moisture, such as sweat.

Environmental Awareness.  This is a feature we haven’t seen much of.  Polk Audio tested and tested until they created headphones that block out enough ambient sound to keep you focused, but allow enough to keep you safe.

Cons

Fit.  The ear hook design that Polk uses seems to fit slightly different.  They were extremely comfortable, but it might take a few hours to get the perfect fit.

Our Review

It will be interesting to see how the UltraFit 500s do in 2012.  Polk Audio, who is well known for designing and manufacturing speakers has stepped into the headphone world.  Their first attempt at sports and exercise headphones was a pretty good one.  The Polk Audio UltraFit 500, while on the lower end of the new Polk headphones line, is still on the higher end of overall workout headphones.

Polk did a great job of understanding the basic premise of great sports headphones are durability, performance, and comfort.  You’ll be able to tell that Polk knows what they’re doing in regards to sound.  Like we mentioned above they are quite comfortable, though expect a couple trips to the gym to break them in.  And as for durability they seem to be top notch.  Polk even added a bit of stylish reinforcing on the ear hook.

An added feature we like is their attempt at tangle-free cords.  While they may not always stay tangle-free for the most part they are designed very well.

In the end it’s a bonus that the UltraFit 500 comes in several different colors, all of which look great.

Read additional reviews here

Specifications

• Available in 4 colors: red/black, yellow/black, gray/white, orange/white
• Moisture resistant
• Tangle free audio cables
• Input: 3.5mm
• Weight: 0.5 ounces
• Warranty: 1 year limited

What’s in the Box

• Polk Audio UltraFit 500 Headphones
• Protective case
• 14″ cable (for armband)
• 41″ cable
• Shirt clip
• 3 pairs of StayFit silicon ear tips

Where to Buy

We regularly check prices and always find the best prices at Amazon.

Features at a Glance

The Polk Audio Ultrafit series includes 4 models: 2 in-ear, 1 in-ear-canal, and 1 over-ear headphones.

General Features for all Models

• 3 different cable lengths included for hip, arm, and collar clip locations
• SecureFit technology ensures the headphones won’t fall out
• Moisture Shield keeps them sweat-resistant
• StrainGuard technology uses durable material eliminates cable failure
• 3 different size StayFit silicone ear tips included
• Sweat-wicking mesh storage pouch

UltraFit 500

• Price Range: $50-$55
• Moderate noise isolation
• No in-line controls or microphone
• In-ear fit designed to sit on flange of ear canal
• Colors: red/black, gold/black, gray/white, orange/white

Check out more information for the Ultrafit 500 here

UltraFit 1000

• Price Range: $70-75
• Similar to UltraFit 500
• Added 3 button in-line remote control and microphone (both work with iPhone, iPod)
• Colors: red/black, gray/white

Check out more information for the Ultrafit 1000 here.

UltraFit 2000

• Price Range $70-75
• Over-ear version of the UltraFit 1000
• Colors: red/black, orange/white

Check out more information for the Ultrafit 2000 here.

UltraFit 3000

• Price Range $100-105
• In-ear-canal fit offers highest sound quality and noise isolation
• Colors: red/black, gray/white, orange/white

Check out more information for the UltraFit 3000 here.

Our Initial Review

Polk Audio seems to have put a major emphasis on ergonomics in terms of athletic performance.  Basically, they want you to be comfortable when you put their sports headphones on.  This can also be seen with their addition of 3 different cable lengths, something we haven’t seen from a sports headphones manufacturer yet.  You have the option to use a long cable to attach to your MP3 player on your hip, a mid range cable to attach to an armband, or a short cable to attach to your collar.

They’ve also done a good job as far as looks, offering black and white designs in all models, and in some models orange and white, or black and gold.

There have been some complaints about sound quality for the lower models, but it is a little too early to tell.  Though another built in feature is their “Environmental Awareness” factor.  None of the models are noise-isolating, but they all have noise moderation, meaning you’ll block out a lot of ambient noise, but not so much that you won’t be aware of your surroundings.  This is definitely a plus from a safety point of view.

Right now it seems their best option is the UltraFit 3000 in terms of dollar for dollar value, and coming in right around a $100 these new headphones are definitely going to be worth the price.

Check back for more in depth reviews to come for each model.